Florida Physical Therapy Jurisprudence Practice Exam

Which of the following personnel can practice under the general supervision of a physical therapist?

1. Physical therapist applicant

2. Physical therapist assistant

3. Physical therapy student

4. Physical therapy aide

The correct answer is: Physical therapist assistant

The personnel that can practice under the general supervision of a physical therapist is the physical therapist assistant. In Florida, a physical therapist assistant is licensed to assist in the delivery of physical therapy services under the direction of a licensed physical therapist. General supervision allows a physical therapist to oversee the work of an assistant while not being required to be present on-site at all times. This allows for flexibility in patient care while ensuring that a licensed professional is ultimately responsible for the treatment plan and patient outcomes. While a physical therapist applicant is still in the process of becoming licensed and does not have the authority to practice independently, a physical therapy student is typically under direct supervision during clinical rotations and a physical therapy aide does not have a license and performs non-clinical tasks rather than engaging in direct patient care. Thus, the only role that operates under general supervision and is allowed to perform therapeutic tasks is the physical therapist assistant.